armadillo

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ar·ma·dil·lo / ˌärməˈdilō/ • n. (pl. -os) a nocturnal omnivorous mammal native to Central and South America, with large claws for digging and a body covered in bony plates. Several genera and species include the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus, family Dasypodidae).

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

armadillo

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armadillo Nocturnal, burrowing mammal found from Texas to Argentina, noted for the armour of bony plates that protect its back and sides. When attacked, some species roll into a defensive ball. It eats insects, carrion and plants. Length: 130–150cm (50–59in). Family Dasypodidae.

World Encyclopedia

armadillo

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armadillo XVI. — Sp., dim. of armado armed man :- L. armātus, pp. of armāre (see ARM2).

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Etymology T. F. HOAD

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